Savory Herb Pancakes

Savory herb pancakes are a delicious variant of the more classic sweet pancakes, perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Here’s a version with an Italian twist!

Ingredients

• 150 g of flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder for savory cakes
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 large egg
• 200 ml of milk
• A mix of fresh herbs of your choice (for example, basil, parsley, chives), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (and a little extra for cooking)
• Grated cheese to taste (pecorino or Parmesan for a typical Italian choice)

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder, add the salt and a pinch of black pepper. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg and milk together.
3. Pour the egg and milk mixture into the well of the dry ingredients and mix gently until you get a smooth batter, but try not to overwork it.
4. Add the chopped herbs and stir to disperse them evenly throughout the batter.
5. Heat some oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour a small amount of the batter into the hot pan to form the pancake.
6. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through at the center. You may have to lower the heat if the pancakes darken too quickly.
7. Serve the pancakes hot, sprinkled with grated cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Curiosity

Pancakes, or fritters, have ancient origins and have adapted to multiple culinary cultures. This savory version is perfect for enhancing the aromas of fresh herbs from the Italian garden, and the addition of grated cheese adds another touch of flavor and richness to the dish. Experiment with different herbs and cheeses to find your favorite combination!